1967 Canada Confederation Coin: Ultimate Guide to Value, History, Designs, Silver Content & Collectibility

1. Introduction to 1967 Canadian Centennial Coins

The 1967 Canada Confederation coins mark a pivotal moment in Canadian history—100 years since Confederation. The Royal Canadian Mint (RCM) introduced a special edition coin set to commemorate this centennial year, which remains one of the most iconic and artistically significant coin issues in Canada’s numismatic timeline.

2. Historical Context: Why the Confederation Was Celebrated

Canada officially became a confederation on July 1, 1867, unifying Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia under one dominion. The 1967 celebration was not only a tribute to the nation’s birth but a showcase of its progress. In honor of this milestone, the Royal Canadian Mint released a commemorative coin set that changed Canadian coin design forever.

3. Overview of the 1967 Centennial Coin Series

This set included six circulation coins with specially designed wildlife motifs and a $20 gold coin:

Each design reflected Canada’s rich fauna, selected to embody the nation’s diversity and spirit.

4. Design Symbolism of Each Coin

• 1 Cent – Rock Dove: Symbolizes peace and migration.

• 5 Cents – Rabbit: Represents alertness, speed, and natural reproduction.

• 10 Cents – Mackerel: A nod to Canada’s maritime economy and biodiversity.

• 25 Cents – Bobcat: Embodies independence and courage.

• 50 Cents – Howling Wolf: Signifies wilderness and freedom.

• 1 Dollar – Canada Goose: Represents national unity, grace, and strength.

The artistic simplicity and modernist interpretation made these coins instant classics.

5. Technical Specifications: Size, Weight, and Composition

Silver coins had 80% silver content, though later some were minted with 50% due to cost-saving measures.

6. Silver Content and Variants

• Early 1967 coins were 80% silver, while some later coins (especially dimes and quarters) were 50% silver.

• The $20 coin contained 0.5288 troy oz of gold, giving it high bullion value.

7. Mintage Numbers and Production Details

The $20 gold piece was never circulated and was only sold to collectors at the time.

8. Coin Values in Today’s Market

Note: Values fluctuate based on silver and gold spot prices.

9. Rare Varieties and Mint Errors

Highly collectible variants include:

• Double-die reverse (DDR)

• Misstrikes or Off-center strikes

• Struck-through grease or fiber

• Planchet flaws

These rare errors can multiply a coin's value significantly.

10. Grading and Preservation Tips

Use ICCS, PCGS, or NGC for grading.
Store in:

• Acid-free holders

• Capsules

• Velvet-lined boxes

• Cool, dry environments

Avoid touching coins directly to prevent fingerprints and oxidation.

11. Legal Tender Status and Usage

Yes, all 1967 coins are still legal tender at face value. However, due to their silver and collector value, spending them as regular currency is ill-advised.

12. How to Sell 1967 Canadian Coins

Options include:

• eBay auctions

• Numismatic websites like VCoins, MA-Shops

• Coin shows

• Local dealers and coin clubs

• Facebook Marketplace and collector groups

13. Where and How to Buy Them

Recommended sources:

• Local coin shops

• Online platforms (eBay, Heritage Auctions)

• Estate sales

• Royal Canadian Mint resellers

• Certified dealers

14. Investment Analysis: Are They Worth It?

Pros:

• Historically significant

• Rising silver/gold prices

• Scarce in high grades

Cons:

• Grading costs

• Market saturation for low-grade coins

Invest in MS65+ or proof sets for better ROI.

15. Differences Between Circulation and Proof Sets

• Circulation coins have higher mintages and wear.

• Proof-like coins are shinier with sharper strikes.

• Specimen/proof sets are rare and command higher premiums.

16. Comparing 1967 Coins to Other Commemoratives

Unlike later coins that often use colorization, 1967 coins are:

• Timeless in design

• Minted during a silver era

• Nationally symbolic

They remain more respected among traditional numismatists.

17. Famous Auctions and Record Sales

• 1967 $20 Gold Coin (PCGS PR69) sold for over $4500

• 1 Dollar Canada Goose (MS67) fetched over $1000

• Error coins sold for 300%+ standard market rates

18. How to Spot Counterfeits

• Watch for underweight coins

• Incorrect font/design features

• Magnetic tests (silver and gold are non-magnetic)

• Always compare to authenticated versions

19. How to Store and Display Centennial Coins

Use:

• Mylar flips

• Coin slabs (for graded coins)

• Display cases with humidity control

• Bank vaults for high-value gold coins

20. Final Thoughts

The 1967 Canada Confederation coin set is not just currency—it’s a national heirloom. Whether you're investing, collecting, or preserving Canadian heritage, these coins are essential additions with timeless appeal.

21. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is the 1967 Canada centennial coin silver?
A: Yes, the 10¢, 25¢, 50¢, and $1 coins were made with silver (either 80% or 50%).

Q2: Who designed the 1967 Canada coins?
A: Celebrated Canadian artist Alex Colville designed all six wildlife-themed coins.

Q3: Are 1967 coins worth keeping?
A: Absolutely, especially in high grade or if made of silver/gold. They hold strong historic and collector value.

Q4: How do I know if my 1967 coin is valuable?
A: Check for condition, silver content, rare errors, and if it’s part of a proof or specimen set.

Q5: What's the most expensive 1967 Canadian coin?
A: The $20 gold coin and high-grade Canada Goose silver dollars are typically the most valuable.

List of Frequently Asked Questions About the 1967 Canada Confederation Coin: History, Value, Designs, and Collector Guide

Introduction to the 1967 Canada Confederation Coin

The 1967 Canada Confederation Coin refers to the special commemorative coins issued by the Royal Canadian Mint to celebrate 100 years of Canadian Confederation (1867–1967). These coins form one of the most iconic and artistically celebrated series in Canadian numismatic history.

Rather than issuing a single commemorative medal, Canada chose to redesign every circulating denomination for one year only. Each coin featured a unique wildlife or symbolic reverse design, reflecting the nation’s geography, natural heritage, and cultural identity. As a result, the 1967 Confederation coins are instantly recognizable, historically meaningful, and highly collectible.

Today, the 1967 Canada Confederation Coin series is sought after by beginner collectors, advanced numismatists, historians, educators, and precious-metal investors. This comprehensive FAQ-style guide answers the most common questions about the 1967 Confederation coins, including their history, designs, metals, values, varieties, errors, grading, rarity, and long-term collectibility.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 1967 Canada Confederation Coin

1. What is the 1967 Canada Confederation Coin?

The 1967 Canada Confederation Coin refers collectively to the Canadian coins issued in 1967 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Canadian Confederation. Each denomination featured a special reverse design created specifically for the Centennial year.

2. Why is the 1967 Confederation coin historically important?

The 1967 Confederation coins are important because:

• They celebrate 100 years of Canada as a nation

• They replaced standard designs with one-year-only artwork

• They marked a major cultural and patriotic milestone

• They represent a transition era in Canadian coinage

• They are among the most artistically praised coins ever issued by Canada

3. Was there only one 1967 Confederation coin?

No. The term “1967 Confederation Coin” applies to multiple denominations, not a single coin. The Royal Canadian Mint redesigned all circulating coins for 1967.

4. Which denominations were issued as 1967 Confederation coins?

The full Confederation series includes:

• 1 Cent (Penny)

• 5 Cents (Nickel)

• 10 Cents (Dime)

• 25 Cents (Quarter)

• 50 Cents (Half Dollar)

• $1 Dollar

In addition, gold coins such as the $10, $20, and $100 were issued as Centennial commemoratives.

5. Who appears on the obverse of the 1967 Confederation coins?

All 1967 Confederation coins feature Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse. The portrait was designed by Arnold Machin and is commonly known as the Machin Portrait, showing the Queen wearing a tiara and facing right.

6. Who designed the reverse designs of the 1967 Confederation coins?

Most of the reverse designs were created by Alex Colville, one of Canada’s most respected painters and visual artists. His work on the 1967 coins is widely regarded as a high point in Canadian coin design.

7. What are the reverse designs on the 1967 Confederation coins?

Each denomination features a unique design:

• 1 Cent: Rock dove (peace and unity)

• 5 Cents: Hare (adaptability and wilderness)

• 10 Cents: Mackerel (maritime heritage)

• 25 Cents: Bobcat (strength and agility)

• 50 Cents: Howling wolf (independence and wilderness)

• $1 Dollar: Flying goose (freedom and national identity)

8. Why were animals chosen for the 1967 Confederation coins?

Animals were chosen to:

• Represent Canada’s natural environment

• Symbolize regional diversity

• Reflect national character and resilience

• Create a timeless, non-political artistic theme

• Appeal to both collectors and the general public

9. What metals were used in the 1967 Confederation coins?

Metal composition varies by denomination:

• 1 Cent: Bronze (copper alloy)

• 5 Cents: Nickel

• 10 Cents: Nickel

• 25 Cents: Nickel

• 50 Cents: 80% silver

• $1 Dollar: 80% silver

10. Do the 1967 Confederation coins contain silver?

Yes. Two denominations contain silver:

• 1967 50 Cents: 80% silver

• 1967 $1 Dollar: 80% silver

Lower denominations do not contain silver.

11. How much silver is in the 1967 Confederation coins?

Approximate silver content:

• 50 Cents: ~0.30 troy ounces

• $1 Dollar: ~0.60 troy ounces

Total silver content for both coins is approximately 0.90 troy ounces.

12. How many 1967 Confederation coins were minted?

Hundreds of millions of individual coins were struck in 1967. However, complete sets in high-grade or original mint packaging are far less common today.

13. Are 1967 Confederation coins rare?

• Circulated coins: Very common

• Uncirculated coins: Common to moderately scarce

• Mint-sealed sets: Scarce

• High-grade certified coins: Rare

Rarity depends heavily on condition and preservation.

14. What is the value of 1967 Confederation coins today?

Approximate values vary by coin and condition:

• 1¢–25¢ (circulated): Face value to a few dollars

• 50¢ (circulated): $8 – $15 (silver value dependent)

• $1 Dollar (circulated): $15 – $30

• Uncirculated silver coins: Higher premiums

• Certified MS-65+ coins: $100 – $500+

Silver prices significantly affect values.

15. Why do some 1967 Confederation coins sell for high prices?

Higher prices are driven by:

• High mint-state grades

• Original mint luster

• Certification by PCGS or NGC

• Error or variety status

• Strong collector demand

16. Are there varieties among the 1967 Confederation coins?

Yes. Known varieties include:

• Die cracks and die chips

• Weak or strong strikes

• Minor lettering variations

• Die polish lines

These varieties are popular among specialized collectors.

17. Are mint errors known for 1967 Confederation coins?

Yes. Known errors include:

• Off-center strikes

• Broadstrikes

• Double strikes

• Die breaks

• Clipped planchets

Significant errors can sell for hundreds or thousands of dollars.

18. How are 1967 Confederation coins graded?

Coins are graded using the Sheldon Scale (1–70):

• MS-60: Uncirculated with heavy marks

• MS-63: Choice uncirculated

• MS-65+: Gem uncirculated

Silver coins often command strong premiums in higher grades.

19. Should 1967 Confederation coins be professionally graded?

Grading is recommended if:

• The coin appears mint state

• Silver coins show strong luster

• There is a visible error or variety

• You plan to sell to advanced collectors

20. Are 1967 Confederation coins legal tender?

Yes. All 1967 Confederation coins remain legal tender in Canada, though their collectible and metal value exceeds face value.

21. Should 1967 Confederation coins be cleaned?

No. Cleaning damages surfaces, removes original luster, and significantly reduces numismatic value.

22. How should 1967 Confederation coins be stored?

Best storage methods include:

• Mylar flips or coin capsules

• Low-humidity environments

• Avoiding PVC plastics

• Minimal handling

23. How do 1967 Confederation coins compare to earlier Canadian coins?

Compared to earlier issues, the 1967 coins:

• Feature unique one-year designs

• Have stronger artistic identity

• Are easier to collect as a full set

• Appeal strongly to modern collectors

24. Are 1967 Confederation coins a good investment?

They can be a solid long-term investment due to:

• Silver content

• Centennial historical significance

• Strong and lasting collector demand

• Limited supply of high-grade examples

25. Why are 1967 Confederation coins still popular today?

Collectors value them for:

• Centennial importance

• One-year-only designs

• Artistic excellence

• Nostalgia

• Accessibility for all collector levels

Conclusion: Are 1967 Canada Confederation Coins Worth Collecting?

The 1967 Canada Confederation Coin series stands as one of the most important and visually striking chapters in Canadian numismatic history. Issued to mark a once-in-a-century national milestone, these coins combine art, symbolism, history, and collectibility in a way few other issues can match.

While circulated examples remain affordable, high-grade, certified, error, and silver coins are increasingly scarce and desirable. Whether collected individually or as a complete set, the 1967 Confederation coins remain a cornerstone of Canadian coin collecting and a lasting tribute to Canada’s first 100 years.

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